Debra Craig, Think Outside The Branch

02/06/2026

Preparing for Renovation Season? If renovations are on your wish list this spring, the ideal time to plan is before contractors become fully booked and costs start to rise. A brief conversation can provide valuable insights into what’s feasible within your budget and timeline. We are here to listen and help!

www.mortgagesbydebra.ca

01/28/2026

As expected, the Bank of Canada held its key interest rate steady at 2.25% today.

This move reflects a wait-and-see approach. The Bank is comfortable with where rates are right now while it watches incoming data—especially inflation and employment—to confirm the economy is tracking as expected.

So what does this mean for borrowers?
For now, not much changes:

• Variable-rate mortgages and lines of credit tied to prime remain the same
• Fixed mortgage rates are unchanged, as they’re driven by bond markets—not today’s decision

Looking ahead, economists largely expect rates to stay put in the near term, with the next Bank of Canada announcement scheduled for March 18.

If you’re feeling unsure about how this fits into your mortgage or future plans, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. We're always happy to chat, answer questions, and help you understand your options with confidence.

🤍 Here to help, whenever you’re ready.

www.mortgagesbydebra.ca

01/06/2026

📅 **Mark Your Calendars!** The Bank of Canada is set to announce interest rate decisions on these important dates in 2026: January 28, March 18, April 29, June 10, July 15, September 2, October 28, and December 9. 📈

These announcements can significantly impact variable rates, borrowing costs, and overall market sentiment. Staying informed is essential for making confident financial decisions. 💡

Curious about how these rate changes could impact your mortgage or financial plans? Drop a comment or send us a message! 💬

www.mortgagesbydebra.ca

12/23/2025

12/18/2025

The Bank of Canada hit pause last week ⏸️, holding its policy rate at 2.25%. After multiple cuts over the past year, the conversation has shifted from when is the next cut? to are we already at the bottom? 🤔

For borrowers, this means:
🏦 Prime rates remain unchanged (variable payments stay the same for now)
📈 Fixed rates have crept higher as bond yields rise
⚖️ The risk with variable rates is no longer one-directional
🔍 Renewals and rate strategy matter more than ever

With stronger economic data and inflation still sticky, many experts now believe this easing cycle could already be over — and some markets are even pricing in hikes down the road ⏳📊

📖 Read the full breakdown and what it means for your mortgage strategy on my website — link into my blog below:

https://www.mortgagesbydebra.ca/blog/the-bank-of-canada-hit-pause-is-this-as-low-as-rates-will-go

12/10/2025

The Bank of Canada has decided to keep its overnight rate at 2.25% today! 📉 This means that variable and credit products tied to the prime rate will remain unchanged, while fixed rates will continue to reflect movements in the bond markets.

Need clarity on what this means for your mortgage or renewal planning? 🤔 Connect with us today for expert advice and guidance.

www.mortgagesbydebra.ca

11/19/2025

Today, we celebrate Women's Entrepreneurship Day! 🎉✨ Let's honour the incredible women who are paving the way for future generations with their dedication, creativity, and resilience. From small startups to large enterprises, each businesswoman plays a vital role in the growth and strength of our communities. Your passion and hard work inspire us all to dream bigger and reach higher. Thank you for your continued efforts in making a difference! 💪💖

09/01/2025

Labour Day is a time to honour the effort that builds our communities. It is also a reminder that your financial plans should work as hard as you do. Smart mortgage planning helps ensure that your hard work creates stability, security, and opportunity for the future.

www.mortgagesbydebra.ca

08/25/2025

Think paying your credit cards on time is enough? Think again. 😬
�Even one maxed-out card can tank your credit score by 30+ points—and that can be the difference between mortgage approval or rejection. 🏠💥

Why? It all comes down to credit utilization. If you’re using more than 50% of your available credit, lenders might see it as a red flag—even if you never miss a payment. 😳

Here’s the good news 👉 If you’re a homeowner, refinancing could help you:

✅ Consolidate high-interest debt�✅ Lower your monthly payments�✅ Boost your score in a matter of months

Curious where your credit stands—or how to protect it before applying? Let’s chat. Your next move deserves a clear path forward.

www.mortgagesbydebra.ca

07/30/2025

📢 Rate Update from the Bank of Canada 📢

The BoC is holding steady on interest rates:

✔️ Overnight rate: 2.75%
✔️ Bank rate: 3%
✔️ Deposit rate: 2.70%

Here’s what you need to know:

🇨🇦 Canada’s economy is showing resilience but feeling the effects of U.S. tariffs:
🔻 Q2 GDP likely shrank ~1.5% after a strong Q1
📉 Unemployment up to 6.9%
📈 Inflation at 1.9% in June; core inflation around 2.5%
🏠 High shelter costs still a key driver

🌍 Globally:

📦 Trade tensions continue with tariff uncertainty
💼 U.S. growth has cooled, but labour remains strong
📊 Eurozone and China are holding steady
🛢️ Oil prices stable; global equities rising

🔮 What’s ahead?

In the base scenario:

📉 Modest global slowdown through 2025
📈 Gradual rebound by 2027
⚖️ Inflation stays near 2%, but risks remain depending on tariff changes

The Bank is proceeding cautiously and may cut rates if inflation eases and economic weakness continues.

For any and all mortgage and refinancing questions please visit mortgagesbydebra.ca

07/01/2025

Happy Canada D’eh!

Whether you're at the cottage, hosting a BBQ, or just enjoying the red and white – here's to the place we call home. However you're celebrating, enjoy this great country celebrating in the company of friends and family.🇨🇦

04/14/2025

What a Masters! Final round Rory didn’t make it easy on himself. The finish is what counts.⛳️